Here are our new rankings featuring the Top 20 Finnish prospects for the 2019 NHL Draft. The rankings include only Finland-based prospects, as was the case in our September rankings, which can be viewed here.
Kaapo Kakko and Anttoni Honka remain at the top of the rankings, but there has been quite a bit of movement and several new players have entered the rankings. Jukurit defenseman Mikko Kokkonen has climbed up three spots to the third place. His overall game is at a strong level and he has been able to contribute offensively in the Liiga this season. Tappara forward Patrik Puistola, who has recently put his offensive abilities on display in Mestis, remains fourth in the rankings, while Kokkonen’s teammate Henri Nikkanen is ranked fifth.
The ranking also includes five new names who were not listed last month: defensemen Antti Tuomisto, Santeri Hatakka and Kim Nousiainen, as well as goalie Roope Taponen and winger Teemu Engberg. The first four have had strong performances in recent U20 viewings, including at a tournament in Vaasa earlier this month. Especially Tuomisto and Hatakka have improved quite a bit since last season. Engberg, a third-time draft eligible, has been able to increase his role with HIFK’s Liiga team and is showing promise with his skill, speed and vision.
